Pakistan has rich cultural roots, which is the combination of our ethnic groups such as Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi, Pathans and others. Each one of them have their own unique civilization, culture, value, norms and traditions. Especially our traditional dances, which are not only popular in Asia but also recognise globally.

Here are 12 Pakistani traditional dances you may not be aware of.

1. Bhangra

Bhangra is a free form traditional dance originating in Punjab. It involve simple dance moves, you just have to raising the arms above the shoulders and start moving your body.

Source: en.wikipedia.org

2. Luddi

Luddi is also referred as a Punjabi form of dance. It is mostly done by the women of family of different occasions.

Source: dawn.com

3. Sammi

Sammi is originated from the tribal communities of Punjab. This dance is popular in Sandalbar area of Punjab and performs by women of Baazigar, Rai, Lobana and Sansi tribes. Legends said that this dance was originally performed by Princess Sammi of Marwad to show excessive emotion at her separation from Rajkumar Suchkumar of Rajasthan.

Source: m.google.com

4. Jumar

Juamr or Jhoomar is the traditional Saraiki folk dance. The word “Jhumar” comes from jhum/jhoom, which means swaying. It is one of the liveliest forms of music and dance that originated in the Multan and Balochistan, also thrived in Sandalbar areas of Punjab in Pakistan.

Source: placestovisitinpunjab.wordpress.com

5. Leva

Leva is a folk dance of Balochistan originated from Makran region. It is mostly done on weddings or other special occasions inside the tribal contemporary society with the Balochis.

Source: tribune

6. Chap

Chap is also folk dance of Balochistan. It includes the palm clapping party typically done by adult men on marriages.

Source: wallpapersandphotoshd.blogspot.com

7. Attan

Attan is originated in the Pashtun regions of eastern Afghanistan and north western tribes of Pakistan. It is a folk dance conducted by Pashtuns on weddings and other celebrations.

Source:bitlanders.com

8. Khattak dance

Khattak dance is a swift martial Attan dance. It i performed while carrying a sword and a handkerchief by the tribesmen from the agile Khattak tribe of Pashtuns in Pakistan and some eastern areas of Afghanistan. Initially it was use as war preparation exercise, it is known to be the only dance with sword play.

Source: ourkpk.com

9. Gumhar and Gatka

Gumhar and Gatka is the most popular dance of hazara division Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. It is a martial art dance form performed by sticks.

Source: youtube.com

10. Chitrali Dance

Chitrali Dance is the traditional dance of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa along the Gilgit Baltistan. It is mostly perform by the people around conquer of major drums. Each of them placed their particular arms for the shoulder blades of each different in addition to fits their particular ft operates with each other.

Source: pakimag.com

11. Dhammal

Dhammal is performed by at Sufi Shrines and Darghas throughout Punjab in addition to Sindh.

Source: travel.nationalgeographic.com

12. Ho Jamalo

Ho Jamalo is a Sindhi folk song and associated with the dance in the Sindhi culture of Pakistan. It is performed on the occasions of festivity and celebration.